Finding and Fixing Restroom Odors

One of the biggest complaints facilities face is restroom odors. Finding and fixing the source of the odors can be difficult, but with a little knowledge, you can find their source and quickly solve them.

Understanding Where Restroom Odors Come From

The main cause of restroom odors is simply bacteria. Bacteria are living organisms that feed on dirt and soils, something most restrooms have plenty of. As they consume, they digest and their digestion gives off gasses. In restrooms, these gasses are what we commonly refer to as odors.

So, to put an end to the odors, you must eliminate the food supply for the bacteria.

Finding the Source of Restroom Odors

Now that you have an understanding of what causes restroom odors, you will need to find the sources. These can usually be found in areas where dirt and bacteria are left for an extended period of time. Under fixtures, along the edges of walls, around toilet rims and grout lines in floors and walls are all examples of areas that provide a hiding place for odor causing bacteria.

Inspection with a mirror or even a black light can reveal places that have been missed by regular cleaning.

Cleaning vs. Disinfection

One mistake many people make when combating restroom odors, is to use a disinfectant or bleach to eliminate the troublesome smells. This is, at best, a temporary fix because these types of products simply kill the bacteria. They do not remove the food source for bacteria. Since these little organisms multiply very quickly, it is only a matter of time before they will be back along with the odors.

By cleaning first, you will take away the majority of the dirt and soil, thus starving out the bacteria. After removing the food source, you can use a disinfectant to kill off the bacteria. It is important to note that all disinfectants should be used in the properly measured dilution ratios. Always read and follow the instructions carefully.

To see more in depth toilet and urinal disinfecting instructions, check out our how-to on disinfecting toilets and urnials.

Don’t Cover Up Restroom Odors Unless….

There are some restroom odors that are more, should we say, immediate. This is a great use for air freshener products. Masking odors never solves the core issue, but can provide a quick cover up when needed.

With some extra attention, restroom odors will become a thing of the past and you will be able to keep them in check.